GCEMA offers winter storm tips

In the aftermath of the recent record-setting winter storms in the region, Greene County Emergency Management Agency (GCEMA) Director Roger Axe offered up several ways for Greene County residents to be prepared and to stay safe during inclement weather.

PLAN AHEAD AND BE READY

* Put together a disaster supplies kit for your household. Clearly label an easy-to-find, sturdy box and make sure all family members know where it is kept. Include a battery-powered NOAA weather radio, a portable radio, flashlight, extra batteries, canned food, a non-electric can opener, first aid supplies - including essential medications - and bottled water. Make sure each family member has a warm coat, gloves or mittens, a hat and water-resistant boots.

* Put together additional disaster supplies kits for the trunk of each car used by family members. Include extra blankets, sets of dry clothing, a shovel, sand, tire chains, jumper cables, a first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries and a brightly-colored cloth to tie to the car’s antenna.

* Winterize cars before the winter storm season.

* Discuss winter storm preparedness among family members until everyone is confident they know what to do in the event a winter storm warning or watch is issued.

* Take an American Red Cross first aid course to learn how to treat exposure to cold, frostbite and hypothermia.

* Prepare a winter storm plan and know the difference between a winter storm watch, a winter storm warning and a blizzard warning. A winter storm watch means a winter storm is possible; a winter storm warning means a winter storm is headed for your area and a blizzard warning means strong winds, blinding and wind-driven snow and dangerous wind chills are expected.

* When a winter storm watch is issued, listen to NOAA weather radio, local radio and TV for updates. Be alert to changing weather conditions and avoid unnecessary travel.

* When a winter storm warning is issued, stay indoors. If you must go outside, several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves or mittens and a hat will prevent loss of body heat. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs.

* Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and cold temperatures on exposed skin. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from a person’s body at an accelerated rate, driving down body temperature.

* Walk carefully on icy, snowy sidewalks and if you shovel snow, be careful to avoid overexertion by taking frequent breaks.

* If you must travel by car, have an emergency disaster supply kit in the trunk, keep your gas tank full and let someone know your destination, route and when you expect to arrive.

* If you travel by car and you get stuck, stay with your car. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the car antenna for rescuers to see. Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes do not back up into the car. Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.

“People should not forget to use gasline anti-freeze so their vehicle will start in extreme cold weather,” Axe added. “Also, it has been said that heat escapes out of the top of the head so wear a hat. Military studies found that heat also escapes the nape of the neck, so a scarf or a muffler is advised”

For more information, visit GCEMA on the internet at http://gcema.ddns.net/